Leek Life May June 2015

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Leek MAY/JUNE 2015

WIN ÂŁ50 Wilko

Life

Voucher

Peregrine project takes flight

Leek Arts Festival Artisans bring creative flare to town

Wildlife trust seeks watch area volunteers

57% of UK adults haven’t made a Will*

* Source: Opinium 2014

If you don’t make a Will, the law may mean a loved one won’t benefit from your estate. Take control. Make a Will.

To find out more call 01538 399332 or visit www.tinsdills.co.uk

MAY/JUNE

CONTENTS

Editor’s Letter......................................6

Leek Arts Festival ................................8

Apprenticeship Awards.....................25

Property ............................................26 Ask the Expert ...................................31

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust..............32 Daisy Haye Retirement Living .........33 Bagnall Chestnut Queen Fete ...........34

Scooter-Fest ......................................36 Caudwell Children Activity Days ......37

Foxlowe Arts Centre .........................38

Auto Extravaganza .............................12

Leek RUFC ........................................39

Mousetrap Competition .....................15

Wilko Competition ............................41

Stage Directions .................................14 Recipes for Life ..................................16

Vintage Wedding Fashion Show ......40 Homes and Gardens .........................42

Motoring Leek Food and Drink Festival............18 Friday 26th April - Sunday 28th April ...........................................46 Life Coach Column ............................24

Classified...........................................50

Come and join us for fantastic deals throughout the weekend

www 01538 756 333 Kingsley: Stoke-on-Trent ST10 2EH

Extensive tile and bathroom showroom

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Lorna Gould Contents Editor lorna@timesandecho.co.uk Sophie Cotton Tracey Wardle Design & Production Thomas Brian Advertising Manager tom@timesandecho.co.uk Mobile: 07855 242693 Jane Walters Advertising Sales jane@timesandecho.co.uk Times, Echo & Life Publications 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent ST10 1BD Tel: 01538 752214 www.timesechoandlife.co.uk life@timesandecho.co.uk 14,150 copies of every issue delivered to households and businesses in Leek and the surrounding areas

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elcome to the May/June edition of Leek Life magazine, we hope you’ve all been enjoying the beautiful spring sunshine? With the light evenings and warmer days now well and truly upon us, thoughts will inevitably turn to making the most of every hour of glorious weather we are blessed with. Luckily, thanks to the rich and varied summer events calendar on offer here in Leek, we are simply spoiled for choice. Inside this edition we have a full round-up of the fabulous Leek Arts Festival which is now well underway. The dedicated army of organisers have pulled out all the stops to make sure the 2015 event is even more diverse and exciting than ever before. Our friends over at the Foxlowe, with a little help from some local school children, have been busy preparing for visitors travelling into the town on two wheels by placing a number of cycle-friendly planters at the arts centre and cafe. Studies show that cyclists spend more time in our local area than car users now, so this idea is sure to help make them feel welcome. Good luck to our younger readers, many of whom will be preparing to face their GCSE and A level examinations. This can be a real cause of anxiety for those concerned and with this in mind our columnist, Carolyn Trafford from Reflections Coaching, has put together some great advice to help ease the pressure of exam time. We also hear from Staffordshire Wildlife Trust who are on the look out for volunteers to help them carefully monitor a breeding pair of peregrines over on the Roaches Estate. What a great way to help a good cause and enjoy our breathtaking local scenery at the same time.

We hope you enjoy this latest edition of Leek Life Magazine, happy reading!

The Old Police Station, Leonard Street, Leek Courtesy of Brett Trafford www.bretttrafford.com 6 Leek Life May/June 2015

Lorna x

Did you know that you can view Leek Life online? Visit www.timesechoandlife.co.uk

Find us on Facebook search for Leek Life Magazine

LEEK ARTS FESTIVAL

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ickets for one of the highlights of Leek’s spring social calendar - the 2015 arts festival - are now on sale and this year the programme is bigger and better than ever before. Somehow, Festival organisers have managed to cram more than 50 events into the programme this year with virtually every interest catered for. Major acts on offer from the beginning of May through to early June include Mike Harding – who will be performing his poetry – The Voice runner-up Sally Barker, Manchester-based alternative folk outfit The Travelling Band, the fantastically funny Fake Thackray, Climax Blues Band, Fairport Convention (making their 25th consecutive appearance at Leek Arts Festival) and the ever-popular Birmingham Conservatoire Folk Ensemble. Festival spokesman Phil Edmeades told Leek Life: “With support from the area's wonderful voluntary arts groups, we've put together a programme of 56 events – that's the biggest it's ever been in the Festival's history. “It's been a bit of a nightmare fitting

8 Leek Life May/June 2015

everything in, but at least it gives us a target to aim for next year when it will be our 40th anniversary.” Other key events include classical music from the Ruzena String Quartet, the Staffordshire Moorlands Open Art Exhibition, The Situation's Big May One Day music festival, Leek Choral Society's Classic FM Favourites concert, Art in the Park, the Phoenix Singers' performance of Haydn's Creation, an evening of burlesque dancing and lots more, including cinema. Organisers have confirmed that The Voice runner-up Sally Barker – who reduced Sir Tom Jones to tears with her flawless performances and who has since supported Bob Dylan, Robert Plant and, more recently, Sir Tom himself in concert - will appear at the Leek Arts Festival on Saturday 23rd May. Phil added: “Sally is just one of the major artists we have been able to secure through our network of contacts in the music industry. “None of the big names booked for this year’s Leek Arts Festival have demanded a huge fee and

LEEK ARTS FESTIVAL

1(-. 18 ('18-!8-! , ticket prices have been kept at a very affordable level. “All we need now is for people to buy tickets for their favourite events and come along to enjoy themselves.” In a change from his previous persona as folk musician and comedian, Mike Harding will be presenting an evening of his own poetry; telling stories about his life and the incidents which inspired his verse. Phil explained: “The mighty Fairport Convention have always supported Leek Arts Festival through their link with the local folk club and this year they will be making their 25th annual pilgrimage to the town.” Leek Arts Festival is organised by a small group of dedicated volunteers who book major acts for the festival programme. The programme is then boosted by events staged by local groups and individuals who want to be part of the festivities. As a registered charity, Leek Arts Festival gratefully acknowledges financial support from

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, Leek Town Council, Leek Town Lands Trust and local businesses including KWA and Getliffe’s restaurant. Tickets can be purchased from Leek Tourist Information Centre or the Foxlowe Arts Centre in Market Place and printed versions of the festival programme are widely available in town. Tickets and a full copy of the programme are available on the festival website now. Visit leekartsfestival.co.uk to find out more.

Leek Arts Festival 2015 Mike Harding

SEE IT ALL IN MAY! Ruzena String Quartet

Fairport Convention The Travelling Band

Sally Barker

For full information and online tickets: www.leekartsfestival.co.uk

50 MORE THAN

★ EVENTS ★ www.facebook.com/leekartsfestival Leek Life May/June 2015 9

LEEK ARTS FESTIVAL

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Saturday May 2 • Piva present Measure for Measure – Music from Shakespeare’s Time at All Saints Church, 7.30pm. Price £8 (£7 conc.), from Eric or Jane on 01538 386867 or 07812 645460. • Well Travelled Country rock classics from Hank Williams to Creedence Clearwater and lots more. At The Cock Inn, 9pm start (free). Saturday/Sunday May 2/3 • Judith Brown Jewellery Open Studio Weekend. Visit Judith’s studio above Spout Coffee Shop where she makes elegant, nostalgic jewellery. Top Floor, 70 St Edward Street, Leek, ST13 5DL 10am to 4.30pm. Sunday May 3 • The Situation's Big May One Day music festival. Live music at The Foxlowe from 2pm til midnight. Three stages, 16 acts, child-friendly. Tickets available from www.wegottickets.com/SituationEvents, The Foxlowe or on the door. Under 18s free. Tuesday May 5 • A more serious side of Mike Harding - Mike performs his poetry at The Foxlowe 8pm for 8.30pm start. Tickets £8 from The Foxlowe, Leek TIC or www.leekartsfestival.co.uk • Acoustic Night. Blues and Americana from Mike Gledhill and friends At The Cock Inn, 8.30pm start (free). Thursday May 7 • Funhouse Comedy Club. Featuring Andy White, Steve Day, Phil Pagett, Tom Short and compere Lou Conran. The Foxlowe 8.30pm Tickets £8 from The Foxlowe. Saturday May 9 • Bill Cawley guided walk – “Rebels,

10 Leek Life May/June 2015

Revolutionaries and Real Ale”. A walk examining Leek's radical past. Meet outside the Red Lion in Market Square at 12 midday. £5 per person. • Moorland's Radio Busking Competition at Getliffe’s, Getliffe's Yard, Leek. 1pm-3pm Entrance fee £5 for 10 minute slot. First prize £50. Entry form at www.moorlandsradio.co.uk. • Folk Day at The Foxlowe 1.30pm. The Deacons, Los Angeles, Graham Dawson, The Birdscarers and others (free). • Evening Ceilidh at Foxlowe. Cuckoo's Nest with Martin Thompson plus The Deacons 8pm. £6 on door. • Leek Choral Society Classic FM Favourites, inc The Armed Man, at All Saints Church, Leek 7.30pm. Tickets £10 from West Street Post Office, Picturebook and choir members. (U10s free). Sunday May 10 • Gordie Mackeeman and his Rhythm Boys. The Foxlowe, Leek, 7.30pm for 8pm start. Tickets £12 from The Foxlowe, www.biddulphupinarms.com or 01782 523277. Tuesday May 12 • Cinema: The Imitation Game. Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. Wednesday May 13 • Leek Floral Art Society presents 'Melody of Contrasts' by Jackie Charnock, a National Demonstrator from Shrewsbury. Trinity Church, Derby Street, Leek. 7.30pm £6. Thursday May 14 • Fairport Convention - in association with Cuckoo's Nest Folk Club - make their 25th annual pilgrimage to Leek. The Foxlowe 8pm for 8.30pm start. Tickets £21 from www.leekartsfestival.co.uk or 01538 385260. Friday May 15 • Peak District Big Band present Big Band Sounds from the Forties to the Noughties. The Foxlowe 8pm for 8.30pm start. Tickets £6 from The Foxlowe or on the door. Saturday/Sunday May 16/17 • Art in the Park. Brough Park, Leek. Saturday May 16 11am - 5pm. Sunday May 17th 10am 4pm. Free. Saturday May 16 The 60’s Survivors Relive the beat group era with the hits of The Who, The Kinks, The Rolling Stones and many more. At The Cock Inn, 9pm start (free).

• Wetley Rocks Male Voice Choir present A Gala Concert, with guests The Barbara Walton Singers. Trinity Church, Leek, 7.30pm. Tickets £7 from choir members or on the door. Tuesday May 19 • Peaks, Prairies, Protests and Potbanks, An evening of acoustic music and poems featuring the songs of Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash and original local material with Pete Cash, Rick Ford, Mike Gledhill and special guest The Trent Vale Poet Foxlowe Arts Centre Bar. 8pm. Admission free. • Cinema: The Company You Keep. Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. Wednesday May 20 • Bill Cawley lecture Jonathan Cope, a 17th Century Leek Sailor on HMS Advice and Voyages to the Caribbean – Rum, Pirates and The Lash. 7.30pm at Norton House, Southbank St, Leek. Free event but donations to the Red Cross Building Fund. • Leek Blues presents Kent Duchaine - an evening of authentic Delta Blues. At The Cock Inn, 9pm (free). Thursday May 21 • Fake Thackray. Folk at the Lion, the Red Lion, Cheddleton, present John Watterson as Fake Thackray. 8pm for 8.30pm start. Tickets £10 from 01538 385260. Friday May 22 • Mina Von Vixen presents Silken Burlesque Varietease 7.30pm The Foxlowe. 'Dark, classic, hilarious acts and routines that will leave you covered from head to toe in goosebumps'. Over 18s only. Tickets £7 from The Foxlowe. Saturday May 23 • Staffordshire Moorlands Open Art Exhibition 2015 Prize Ceremony 1pm. The Gallery, Nicholson Institute, Leek. • Sally Barker, The Voice finalist 2014 who brought tears to the eyes of Sir Tom Jones will perform at The Foxlowe, 8pm for 8.30pm start. £15 Tickets from The Foxlowe, Leek TIC or www.leekartsfestival.co.uk Sunday May 24 • Ruzena String Quartet - sponsored by Getliffe's - 2pm for 2.30pm start. One hour recital including music by Mozart and Dvorak at Getliffe's Restaurant, Getliffe's Yard, Leek. Tickets £7 from Getliffe's, The Foxlowe, Leek TIC or www.leekartsfestival.co.uk. • Joni Talks presents A Night at the Musicals – a celebration of some of the greatest musicals of the last century with special guest William Byrne. The Foxlowe 7pm tickets from The Foxlowe or on the door.

Tuesday May 26 • Cinema: The Theory of Everything. Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. Wednesday May 27 • The Travelling Band. Alternative folk from the winners of the Glastonbury New Talent Award 2008. The Foxlowe 8pm for 8.30pm start. £12 Tickets from The Foxlowe, Leek TIC or www.leekartsfestival.co.uk. Thursday May 28 • Cinema: 28 May Paddington (matinee). Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. • Green Dragon Mysteries presents The Life and Times of the Real Robyn Hoode - a talk by writer and archaeologist Mark Olly. Quaker Meeting House, Overton Bank, Leek, 7.30pm. Tickets £5 on the door (£3.50 conc). Friday May 29 • Climax Blues Band at The Foxlowe 8pm for 8.30pm start. Tickets £15 from The Foxlowe, Leek TIC or online www.leekartsfestival.co.uk. Tuesday June 2 • Cinema: Still Life. Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek. Thursday June 4 • Birmingham Conservatoire Folk Ensemble at The Foxlowe 8 for 8.30pm start. £14 Tickets from The Foxlowe, Leek TIC or online www.leekartsfestival.co.uk.

LEEK ARTS FESTIVAL

Other events and Exhibitions

• Throughout May in Getliffe's Yard, artists will demonstrate and exhibit their work every Friday and Saturday from 11am until 4pm with live music every Friday from 6.30pm8pm and every Saturday from 12noon-2pm • From May 4 - 31 there will be an exhibition called ‘Journey’ featuring artwork by young offenders from HMYOI Werrington at Spout Coffee Shop in St Edward Street. Leek. • ‘Astound’ a contemporary art exhibition will be held at the Nicholson Museum & Art Gallery, Leek from May 29 - June 19. A diverse range of work by students studying for the Foundation degree in creative art and design at Leek School of Art will be on display. • On May 6, 13, 20 and 27 Guided Photography Walks will take place. Learn how to capture better outdoor images with professional photographer Brett Trafford. Two-hour teatime walks either on the Caldon Canal or at The Roaches. Cost £15 per person. To book or for more info tel. 07801 058345. Leek Life May/June 2015 11

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embers of the Rotary Club of Leek are looking forward to hosting an action packed classic vehicle event at Lodge Farm Equestrian Centre in Wetley Rocks this May. The Rotary has come a long way from the networking organisation it first started life as over a century ago and is now recognised as an international charitable organisation, with the virtual elimination of polio listed as one of it's most notable achievements. It is however at a local level that the Leek Rotary Club seeks to have the biggest impact and the forthcoming Auto Extravaganza on Saturday 16th May will help to fulfil the principal objectives of the Rotary movement by helping to bring together members of the local community and raise funds for good causes. The event will provide a much anticipated social gathering for vehicle enthusiasts who look forward to displaying classic cars, lorries, vans, coaches, tractors, military vehicles, motorbikes and stationary engines. It will undoubtedly be a great outing for local families too, with an array of other attractions including a fun fair, craft stalls and much more to

enjoy throughout the day. Charity committees from across the area are being invited to host stalls to raise funds and promote their causes and local traders will also be coming along to sell their wares, with home made produce, crafts and garden plants all in the offing. Proceeds generated through the admission fee will benefit the club’s nominated charities including the Donna Louise Trust and the Guide Dogs. The club supports those in need locally, nationally and internationally with causes chosen by the members themselves, all of whom have an equal opportunity to put their case forward for the dispersal of funds. If you are interested in the work of the club visit the website: rotaryclubleek.org.uk or come along on the 16th and visit the control tent for more information. The Leek Rotary Club’s Auto Extravaganza will take place from 10.30am on Saturday 16th May 2015 at Lodge Farm Equestrian Centre, Mill Lane, Wetley Rocks, ST9 0BN. This is a charitable event, kindly sponsored by Shirley’s Transport Ltd and Lodge Tyre, and entry prices are £4 for adults, under tens free.

Saturday 16th May 2015 from l0.30am Lodge Farm Equestrian Centre, Mill Lane, Wetley Rocks, Stoke-on-Trent, ST9 0BN

Family Fun Day Charity Event Entry: £4.00, Under 10s FREE A great day out for all the family! • Classic Cars • Lorries & Vans • Coaches • Tractors • Military Vehicles • Motorbikes & Scooters • Stationary Engines • Auto Jumble • Bar & Refreshments • Funfair • Craft Stalls • FREE entry for exhibitors

Organised by the Rotary Club of Leek

www.rotaryclubleek.org.uk

12 Leek Life May/June 2015

Stage Directions

by Richard Lane

WIN TICKETS TO SEE THE WOMAN IN BLACK

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elebrating its 25th anniversary in the West End, the unanimously acclaimed stage production of THE WOMAN IN BLACK will play at Buxton Opera House on June 16th – 20th. THE WOMAN IN BLACK was first performed at the Theatre-By-The-Sea in Scarborough in 1987 to rave reviews. The production opened in the West End in 1989 where it has enjoyed continued success as well as numerous national tours. In 2012, Susan Hill’s novel The Woman in Black was released as a major motion picture, starring Daniel Radcliffe (best known for his role as ‘Harry Potter’), which successfully became the highest grossing British horror film in 20 years. Stephen Mallatratt’s adaptation of Susan Hill’s best-selling novel tells the story of a lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the spectre of a ‘Woman in Black’. He engages a young actor to help him tell his story and exorcise the fear that grips his soul. It begins innocently enough, but as they reach further into his darkest memories, they find themselves caught up in a world of eerie marshes and moaning winds. The borders between make believe and reality begin to blur and the flesh begins to creep. For the 2014-15 UK tour, Malcolm James plays the role of ‘Arthur Kipps’ and Matt Connor plays the role of ‘The Actor’. The production is directed by Robin Herford, with designs by Michael Holt, lighting by Kevin Sleep and sound by Gareth Owen

The Woman in Black takes place at Buxton Opera House from Tuesday 16 to Saturday 20 June at 7.30pm Matinee performances are on Wednesday and Saturday. Tickets are priced £21-24 and discounts are available. To book, call our Box Office on 01298 72190 or buy online at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

To win 2 tickets to see The Woman In Black at Buxton Opera House on June 16th at 7.30pm, answer the following: Which Harry Potter actor appeared in the recent film version of Woman in Black? a. Daniel Radcliffe b. Rupert Grint c. Emma Watson (CIRCLE ANSWER) Name........................................... Address........................................................................................................................................ .........................................................................................................................Daytime phone no................................................. Please send your entry to Leek Life Magazine, 18 Tape St, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD. Deadline: Monday 18th May 2015

14 Leek Life May/June 2015

WIN tickets to see the show and a wonderful champagne package to the value of £151

ld’s r o w e h t e e s o t s t Win ticke duction o r p e g a t s g in n n longest ru

for six diences guessing etrap has kept au us Mo e Th ry ste murder my Agatha Christie’s 63rd incredible etrap is now in its decades. its tale, The Mous in 2015. ril ist tw Ap a 6th th wi ay ry nd take place on Mo A 'whodunnit' sto to t se the St. ce to an es rm nc 0th perfo es to attract audie year, with the 26,00 production continu g kin rea d-b . or This world rec y, corner of the globe appeared in the pla London from every d actresses have an t rs Martin’s Theatre in en to ac fer 4 dif 43 , 27 p opened been presented in Since The Moustra and the play has 251 understudies en be ve ha ere th . s, including: for than 50 countries ess Book of Record languages in more tries in the Guinn actor (David en le’ ree rab th s du t ha os ap ‘m The Mousetr ow in the world’; sh y an of n ru s inuou ces from the ‘longest cont 4,575 performan d Major Metcalf for ye pla o wh n, ve Ra 1968); and til 23rd November 22nd July 1957 un ro Seab oke, derstudy’ (Nancy ‘longest serving un until 12th es tim 40 Mrs Boyle 6,2 who stood by as es tim ). actually did so 72 March 1994, and of the British me Da a came Agatha Christie be billions of ld r books have so Empire in 1971; he any other an th re mo – e world copies around th e 12th January th on d Bible. She die author, after The 1976 aged 85. atha Christie le style, Dame Ag In her own inimitab g suspense rin de osphere of shud has created an atm rder lurks mu ere wh t plo ricate and a brilliantly int er……… around every corn So how can you be part of history and see this truly entertaining classic? All you have to do is answer the following question:

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How many actors and actresses have appeared in the mousetrap since it first opened? Answer........................(Mr/Mrs/Miss) Name........................................................ Address........................................... ......................................................................................................................................................................................... .....................................Full UK Postcode....................................Tel................................................................................

Closing date: 30th June 2015. Send entries to: Times & Echo Newspapers, 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST10 1BD. Alternatively email your answer with the above details to admin@timesandecho.co.uk. Usual Times, Echo & Life competition rules apply. Offer only applies Monday – Thursday with a matinee on Tuesday and not on a Bank Holiday. The prize should be used up within three months. St. Martin’s Theatre, West Street, London WC2 (off Cambridge Circus), www.the-mousetrap.co.uk, Box Office 08444 991515 (No additional charges when you buy direct from the theatre online/in person/by phone) April/May 2015 39 Ticket prices: 23rd December 2013 to 27th June 2015. Premium tickets are also available. Special School price for Tuesday Matinees. Call the Box Office for details. Stalls: £45.00, £39.50, £35.00. Dress Circle: £45.00 £39.50. Upper Circle: £26.50, £22.50, £17.50

Home made turkey burgers (8 45 7+$78&4 6$5/278658 77 73)825742 A spell of warmer weather prompts all of us to start enjoying salads and lighter bites as we prepare for barbecue weather. As a weekend treat, or something a little special for a garden barbecue with friends, Leek Life brings you a special recipe for homemade turkey burgers.

Ingredients • 500g lean turkey mince • 3 rashers streaky bacon • 1 onion • 1 egg • 1 tsp basil (dried or freshly chopped) • salt and pepper

Method • Empty the turkey mince into a large bowl. • In a seperate cup or jug, beat the egg and add to the mince. • For a rustic burger, mix by hand. Smoother looking patties can be achieved by a brief spell in the blender, but be careful not to mix too finely. • Finely chop the onion and fry in a pan with a small amount of oil. • Chop the bacon into small pieces (or for ease cut with scissors) and add to the pan for about 16 Leek Life May/June 2015

five minutes. • Add the bacon and onion to the mince and mix again by hand, adding basil, salt and pepper to taste. • Form into patties by taking a handful of the mix, rolling into a ball and patting flat. • Grill for about eight minutes on each side or until thoroughly cooked. • Serve in a sliced bap with lettuce and sliced onion, mozarella and fresh tomato with a sprig of fresh basil.

Cheat’s cheescake with berries 140 )7007528 &6580 5/3% )/3/3%

Whipping up a stunning dessert is easy as pie with this cheat’s cheesecake recipe. In this version we have used blueberries to fill and decorate the cheesecake, but the recipe can be used with the berries of your choice or a selection of summer fruits. Ingredients • 200g digestive biscuits • 100g unsalted butter • 1 tin (approx 397g) condensed milk • 300g full fat soft cheese • 2 lemons • Punnet of blueberries (or berries of your choice)

Method • Crush the digestive biscuits into crumbs (do this quickly and with a minimum of mess by putting the biscuits in a sturdy zip lock bag and crushing with a rolling pin). • Melt the butter in a pan over a low heat then add to the crumbs. • Using the back of a spoon spread the crumb mix over the base of a 20cm loose bottomed cake tin, then set aside and leave to cool. • In a mixing bowl, whisk the condensed milk and soft cheese together before mixing in the lemon juice. • Slice blueberries in half and layer over the biscuit base before pouring the topping into the tin. • Chill for at least two hours. • Decorate the top with blueberries and serve.

You are always welcome at

The Hollybush Inn

Delicious homemade food served everyday including Sunday when we serve a traditional roast, and delicious daily specials

• Families welcome • Outdoor play area • Dog friendly • Large beer garden • A selection of real ales Canal Side , Denford, Leek , ST13 7JT

01538 371819

Leek Life May/June 2015 17

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he 2015 Leek Food & Drink Festival saw visitors flock to the town when it took place at the start of spring, on Saturday 21st March. The Food and Drink Festival, which was staged for the very first time only last year, once again helped bring together some of the finest foods to be produced within the three local counties of Staffordshire, Cheshire and Derbyshire. With traders cramming into the centre of the town to sell their wares, it proved to be a real spectacle for both visitors and residents alike.

18 Leek Life May/June 2015

Tempting produce to feature at the event included meats, cheeses, real ales and ciders, chutney, jam and preserves, sauces, oils, pies, baked goods and of course the widely celebrated Staffordshire Oatcake. Coinciding with the regular Leek Fine Food Market and the Totally Locally Sunday Supplement, the overwhelming response to the Festival has prompted organisers to confirm already that the event will be back next year on Saturday 19th March. Leek’s monthly fine food market is held on the third Saturday of the month in the Market Place.

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itting in the early spring sunshine and sipping an excellent pint of real ale beside the tower of an ancient medieval church in the Staffordshire Moorlands is probably the best way to say goodbye to a forgettable winter. And where could be better than outside the Black Lion public house in Cheddleton, where the recent Staffordshire Moorlands CAMRA subbranch met recently to reward the efforts of the host and hostess Robert and Margeaux Farrell with the accolade of Spring Pub of the Season? Situated just off the main A520, the pub was built in the first half of the 19th century and the late Georgian frontage still retains an ‘olde worlde’ charm. Popular with families, historians, narrow boaters, cyclists and walkers, it is something of a hidden gem that easily draws in anyone seeking to enjoy hospitality in a more traditional setting. The present owners took over the pub almost a year ago in April 2014 and pride themselves on providing four top quality hand pulled beers, of which two are rotating guest ales often from local breweries. Speaking about the increasing popularity of the

CAMRA sub-branch and its role in promoting real ale, press secretary Lev Wood told Leek Life: “Having only been established for the past two years, the interest in the sub-branch has been reflected in the numbers now attending but also in the growing awareness of real ale across the Moorlands area. “With a newly created ‘Leek Real Ale Trail’ in the offing, our areas growing reputation as a location that promotes and offers a wide selection of real ale to the discerning and responsible drinker is fast proving to be a magnet for the beer enthusiast. “Coupled with the beautiful landscape of the Moorlands countryside, the scheduled visit by the West Midlands CAMRA Regional Representatives on the 4th July is yet another accolade to prove that our local Publicans can buck the national trend and place our pubs on the map!� The next meeting of the Staffordshire Moorlands CAMRA sub-branch will take place on Saturday 13th June at the Fountain Inn, Leek. For more information about the group log onto the CAMRA Potteries Branch Facebook page or contact Staffordshire Moorlands CAMRA directly on 01782 388241. Leek Life May/June 2015 19

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rom its discreet location on the outskirts of the town, the Leek Skin and Laser Clinic is helping local men and women to banish their body woes for good. Set within a beautiful stone built building at Padwick Farm, Lowe Hill, the clinic is now open for private consultations from Monday through to Saturday (appointment only) courtesy of registered nurse, Sarah Heathcote. As a practicing nurse, working at a local hospital three days a week, 27 year old Sarah is able to call upon her health care expertise to advise and support patients looking to benefit from the various skin care treatments on offer. Having completed specialist training with the Lynton institute - experts in aesthetic technology - Sarah is certified to administer intense pulsed light for the treatment of permanent hair

reduction, thread vein and pigment removal, tattoo removal, acne treatment and skin rejuvenation. Speaking about her growing business, which was established back in January 2014, Sarah told Leek Life: “I have always had an interest in aesthetics and skin care and I love being able to help people feel better about themselves. “These treatments can make such a difference to a person’s confidence and some people will be able to notice a difference after just one session. “I offer a free initial consultation and patch test to every customer to check skin suitability and effectiveness, we’re all different so it’s important to know how each individual’s skin will react.� Other treatments on offer at Leek Skin and Laser include teeth whitening, dermal fillers and anti-ageing injections.

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f you are about to face your exams, hopefully you’ve already managed to do lots of revision. However, no matter how much you do – you’ll probably still be left wondering if you’ve done enough. And once exams are over then there are new challenges to face – moving to sixth form, college universities or starting work for the first time can seem a bit daunting, so here are a few pointers to keep those nerves at bay.

Tips For Last Minute Revision Even if you only have a couple of weeks left to revise, taking time out to work out a timetable can really help prioritise and prevent panics. Block out your time into manageable chunks taking into account how long you can reasonably concentrate for. Make sure you schedule lots of short breaks and try and take these when you know you will have disruptions anyway, i.e. the rest of the family returning home. When you take a break, make it a real break, take a walk and at the very least leave the room that you’re studying in. Consider what time of day your concentration is at its best and schedule your study then. If you’re really struggling to concentrate, go and get some fresh air it will clear your head.

Exam Nerves We all get nervous before the big event. Nerves are a healthy response to a stressful situation and that bit of adrenaline is there to keep you on your toes and alert, so embrace it. However, if the nerves are getting the better of you – try these simple tips on the day to help regain a little calm. Take a brief but brisk stroll before going to the exam. That quick blast of fresh air in your lungs will clear your head just as it did for revision. Control your breathing. Breathe in slowly and deeply for the count of 7 and then out again for the count of 11. Repeat this a few times. Focussing on your breathing in this way takes a degree of concentration and will help stop your mind doing those cartwheels. Also you will clear your lungs of 24 Leek Life May/June 2015

carbon dioxide and take in more oxygen which will help your brain to function effectively. Make sure you read the exam questions slowly and at least twice. We’re all under pressure in exams but the quickest path to failure is to misunderstand the question.

Coping With Change Sitting exams always leads to change. Whether it means you’re moving up into a new school year/sixth form, going off to college or university for the first time or starting a job – it can all be a bit daunting. Understanding how change affects us is key to how we cope with it. There is a cycle that we go through with any change and understanding that the emotions we feel are normal can really help us through the process. Fear of change is natural and the first step is to learn to accept that our anxiety is simply part of the process. Acceptance of the situation is vital too. That next step in life is not going away, so embracing it will help the coping process. We tend to focus our energy and thoughts on the 20% of negative aspects of the change rather than the 80% of positives. The nerves you are experiencing around meeting new people and getting to know them is just about what’s happening in the first week, not the whole year. Start to focus on the positive aspects of the year ahead. Think about all those new friends you’ll make, interesting topics to learn about, new social clubs and hobbies and you will soon learn to embrace the change. Carolyn Trafford is a Leek based personal development coach supporting others in reaching their true potential. If there’s something you want to achieve get in touch today.

Carolyn Trafford Reflections Coaching 07714 216388 Email Caro@reflectionscoaching.co.uk www.reflectionscoaching.co.uk

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Apprentice makes outstanding contribution

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rising local business prospect has received praise for the outstanding contribution he has made to the company he works for. Leek student Ross Kynaston has been recognised as one of the county's top apprentices at a special awards event for his committed approach to the business apprenticeship he is currently undertaking through Bentley Motors. Enterprising Ross was one of just thirteen apprentices from across Staffordshire to have been celebrated for the hard work and dedication they have shown, not only to their studies but also to the businesses they are working for at this year’s Apprenticeship Recognition Awards. The awards ceremony took place at the Kingston Centre, in Stafford, earlier in the Spring and gave apprentices, employers and learning providers the chance to celebrate their successes. On behalf of event organisers the Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership, Ken Stepney presented the awards and spoke of his pride in what the apprentices had

achieved for their companies. “There are some wonderful examples here of how apprentices have made a real and significant difference to their company, regardless of their age, and they should be very proud of their achievements,� he said. On receiving the honour 22 year old Ross, who lives here in the town, told Leek Life: “My apprenticeship has allowed me to learn about all areas of business, not only locally but globally through the offices in Beijing. “Through my apprenticeship I have accepted a permanent role at the company and this will hopefully be the start of my career with Bentley Motors. I would advise other young people to look at all opportunities and not just university. Companies will give you the experience and qualifications to really start your career.� Businesses interested in taking on an apprentice can call the Apprenticeship Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or visit www.stokestaffslep.org.uk. Leek Life May/June 2015 25

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Spencer Avenue, Endon

26 Leek Life May/June 2015

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s the brighter months of the year are arguably the best time to market your property, we share some tips on how to stage your home to appeal to prospective purchasers.

Spring clean It may be a little obvious, but a thorough spring clean is by far the easiest and most cost effective way to begin preparing your home for sale and can almost instantly make it appear more attractive. Cleaning your entire property in one fell swoop can seem a laborious task, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. Involve your entire family in the effort, assign them rooms to clean when they have free time over a week or so and the work will be completed in no time.

De-personalise Although it can be fulfilling to have an abundance of family photos and mementoes adorning the walls and surfaces in your home and feature walls and patterned wallpapers can be just to your taste, the most astute sellers will depersonalise their space when ready to sell. As prospective purchasers view, they will attempt to picture themselves and their belongings in your property; this can be hard in a home which is very individual. Storing away some of the keepsakes and making the decoration more neutral will undoubtedly lend your house a broader appeal.

Create space When looking to buy a new home, a significant majority of people will look for a property with more space than they currently have therefore anywhere that appears small and cluttered is likely to disappoint. Now is the optimum time to go through all of your belongings, including clothes and shoes, and discard or donate anything you no longer need or use. Any items which are still required but not necessarily needed imminently can be boxed up and put in storage ready for your own house move.

The ever important curb appeal Over the colder months it can be easy to forget the exterior of your property, but with over 66% of purchasers having made up their mind about a house before entering the hallway, it is one of the most important elements of preparing your home for sale. Assign some time on an evening or weekend to refresh the paint on your front door, trim lawns and hedges and clear any leaves and debris. A relatively small effort can make a surprising difference to the exterior of your property. Bring nature in Whilst the weather is warmer take the opportunity to open windows, allowing fresh and neutral air into your property. If your garden is flourishing, choose some of the brightest blooms to display in vases around your house, they will add a splash of charm and colour to any room.

Selling your property doesn’t have to mean an overhaul of your entire house. A few small changes here and there can make your home far more appealing.

Do you have any tips and ideas for creating beautiful homes?

We would love to hear from you; send your stories and pictures to Kerry at Hunters Endon (endon@huntersnet.co.uk or 01782 626522). Watch this space for more handy tips, ideas and insights in upcoming issues of Leek Life.

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Leek Life May/June 2015 27

Christopher Walthall Branch Director EweMove Leek

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.28+438 7 574** 8#45)826 )7+/)78 #/+# 70242784%732 268+#6607 #73807**/3%8 6$58#6 7 To help, I’ve put together eight must have ingredients to give your home the very best opportunity of selling fast for the best price. Here goes...

1. You need a local agent with a branch manager you can trust, who is themselves a local (like me!). They need to know the area and can give expert local advice. It also helps them strike up rapport with your buyers. 2. You want somebody to give you the correct valuation and not inflate the price and give you unrealistic expectations to trick you into signing up (and locking you into a long contract...)

3. There should be one point of contact from beginning to end. So the same person who values your house should also conduct the viewings and always be on hand to give you feedback. And that includes giving you their mobile phone number so you can call for an update at any time.

4. Accompanied viewings. The truth is that you more than DOUBLE your chances of a sale by having accompanied viewings. Go without and your agent is shooting you in the foot.

5. Open 24/7 for telephone enquiries to book viewings or make offers. People look for houses

at the weekends or on evenings when most agents are shut! Your agent needs to be available when your buyers are ready and waiting to express their interest.

6. Allow buyers to book their own viewings and make offers online 24/7. By making it easy for your potential sale quickly.

7. They must have exposure on all the major portals. So either Rightmove or Zoopla alone won't cut it. They need to list on Primelocation as well to showcase your home to the maximum audience.

8. Their boards must stand out. There are so many houses for sale and agents boring boards all look the same. Boards are your property's shop window. They need to stand out so that everybody notices them! More attention = more viewers. It's a no brainer ... With all of these techniques deployed, you'll be giving your home the very best chance of a fast sale and achieving the best possible price. Good luck!

Leek Life May/June 2015 29

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30 Leek Life May/June 2015

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hristmas, I have mentioned before, is the date in the diary that a client will want everyone to meet. Whether it must be completed by then, or reach a certain stage, or perhaps start straight after Christmas. For many Christmas deadline’s I have needed to complete plans so the builders can be pricing the work during Christmas, well in theory anyway. A deadline that focuses the mind as to why the work is being done and when it must be done by is the baby bump. Unfortunately mother nature is not always that precise with the due date, but it is the reason many couples need to extend their home. If you need more space and you do not want to move house you may wish to consider extending your home. Your home is the most valuable asset you will buy and an extension to it is likely to be the second most important investment you'll ever make, so it is vitally important that your extension project is carefully planned and the work is carried out by an experienced building contractor. Appointing a professional designer to prepare drawings and designs for you is money well spent, they can guide you through the initial design stages to see what works and what isn’t so good and obtain the necessary permissions such as planning and building regulations approval. An experienced Architect or Architectural technician may help to find suitable builders for you and manage the project for you; a badly designed or built extension can devalue your property. Extra bathrooms, and large kitchens are usually good investments in a family home, but be aware an additional bedroom or two will trigger the requirement from planning and highways department to provide an additional parking space, and it may be likely that the extension to the side of the house will result in a loss of parking, rather than the possibility of adding extra space, and the extension may be refused by the planning department. The space below an additional bedroom may need to be a garage to provide that extra parking, rather than the larger kitchen. The reason for extending your home is usually to

provide more space, or to make the most of the space you already have. One of the main things to get right with your extension is the effect it will have on the existing house and garden, how to access the new part of the house without having long convoluted corridors, or taking too much space off other rooms. One of the planning considerations when building an extension is whether it will take light from a neighbouring property, but you may find an extension does block out light to existing rooms in your house and enlarged rooms may have dark areas in the original part of the building. When getting the work done it is important to get quotes for the work, a detailed set of plans with construction notes complying with building regulations is more likely to produce more accurate quotes and a simple set of plans for a planning application. The more information you can supply to a builder the closer the price can be. Invite 3 or 4 builders to provide a quote for the works, any more than that, the builders merchant will get wise to it and tell his mates that so many others are asking about the same project. A builder with a 1 in 3 chance of getting the work is more likely to return a keen quote, than one who suspects a 1 in 6 or 8 chance. Remember the quality of the fixtures and fittings can greatly affect the cost of the work being done. A high spec kitchen can cost as much as many house extensions, floor and wall tiles, light fittings, bathroom fitting and timber doors can hugely vary in price, and affect your budget so it is important to be clear with your builder what they are to include pricing for, a visit to a showroom or trade show can assist with choosing products and pass your choice to the builder to ensure you are getting what you want. Be sure the builder knows exactly what is being priced for , to avoid a possible conflict later.

Article supplied by Andrew Dukesell DBD Architectural Consultancy 01538 383 118 mail@dbdconsultants.co.uk www.dbdconsultants.co.uk

Leek Life May/June 2015 31

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Wildlife trust seeks watch area volunteers

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taffordshire Wildlife Trust is calling for nature lovers to come forward to help conserve one of the county’s most impressive birds of prey. The recruitment of volunteers will be tasked to take part in a new campaign entitled “Peregrine Watch� which will take place at the dramatic Roaches estate on the outskirts of Leek. The peregrine pair nesting on the Roaches have become a welcome spring treat for visitors to the local beauty spot, having bred successfully in the area since 2008 and producing a total of 12 chicks.

32 Leek Life May/June 2015

Volunteers are required to help the Trust’s wardens during spring and summer 2015 in protecting the birds from disturbance and also to help members of the public learn more about them and get a glimpse through a telescope. Volunteers will be asked to commit whatever time they can to keep an eye on the nest and encourage visitors to discover and learn more about these amazing birds. Speaking about the project Jon Rowe, Roaches Warden, told Leek Life: “A watch area is set up at the base of Hen Cloud equipped with telescopes, information and with your help, volunteers. No expert knowledge is required, just a friendly manner and a few spare hours.� Peregrines are protected birds in the UK and therefore visitors are asked to help minimise disturbance to the birds by avoiding the nesting area from March to June. For more information on volunteering or the Roaches, contact the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust office on 01538 300686, Jon Rowe on 07891918446, Emily Tabernor on 07985476037 or email peregrine@staffs-wildlife.org.uk.

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Vintage tea party celebrates launch

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brand new retirement scheme, the first of its kind for Leek, has been launched in the form of the ÂŁ10m Daisy Haye Retirement Living development. Located on Ball Haye Road the new accommodation has been established for pensioners wishing to reside here in Leek and was officially opened back in March. The historic milestone was marked through a 1940s vintage style afternoon tea party with a wartime theme where residents of the new scheme, local dignitaries and developers celebrated together. The D-Day Darlings, a talented vocal trio, sang wartime songs to entertain the guests to add to the nostalgic atmosphere and vintage army vehicles were on display outside. To officially mark the opening, a wooden carving of the Leek coat of arms was unveiled by new Daisy Haye resident Nesta Knight, Lola Dobel-Ober from Churnet View Middle School and

Karen Bradley. Amongst the invited guests were Mayor and Mayoress of Leek, Keith and Gill Harrison along with civic dignitaries from across the Moorlands, as well as representatives from the Homes and Communities Agency. Daisy Haye has been designed to create a community where residents will be able to live an independent life in a socially supportive environment. The on-site care and support team offer help and support that can be altered to suit individual needs, providing a safe and secure environment and most importantly, giving residents peace of mind. The development is part of the ÂŁ30m Ascent Housing Programme and anyone interested in living at Daisy Haye should call 0345 345 0272. Pictured here are Daisy Haye residents Colleen Sadler, Carol Goodfellow and Phylis Eagle enjoying themselves at the tea party. Leek Life May/June 2015 33

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he Bagnall Chestnut Queen Fete committee is delighted to announce that its 2015-2016 Fete Queen will be Miss Georgia Dawson. Georgia will take over the reins from current queen Eliza Holland when she is crowned at the fete on Saturday 27th June in a tradition stretching back more than 90 years. Following a ceremony at 1pm at St. Chad’s Church, a procession will lead through the village to Moorlands Village Hall in School Road, Bagnall where the fete will be officially opened at 2pm. Georgia is 10 years old and lives in Endon village. The Endon Hall Primary School pupil loves to play football for Leek Town U11’s girls team and enjoys cross country and athletics. She also loves to dance and play the piano, and is fascinated by giraffes. Speaking about her new role, Georgia told Leek Life: “I have been in the Bagnall Chestnut Queen Fete retinue many times and I love dressing up and being part of the fete. I am really looking forward to being the Chestnut Queen.� In Georgia's retinue are her sister Emily Dawson, along with Annabelle Grocott, Saffy

34 Leek Life May/June 2015

Vincent-Hall, Annabelle White, Sophie Holt, Charlotte Holt, Eva Holdcroft, Emily Ball, Annie Rose HoustonSmith, Kizzy Pugh, Mya Vincent-Hall and Ella Higgins. The annual fete helps to raise funds to keep open the Moorlands Village Hall in Bagnall which is a vital community resource. Chair of the fete organising committee, Ruth Houston-Smith commented: “Our fete has been growing in popularity over the years and is fabulous value-for-money for a family afternoon out. We offer free admission and free parking and all the activities are inexpensive.� Some stalls are available for hire, please telephone 01782 502404 for details. Photographs courtesy of Brett Trafford.

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illagers are preparing to welcome visitors to the 171st Endon Well Dressing later this month and have an exciting line up of events and attractions in store. A small committee of residents have been working busily behind the scenes for months to help ensure this, one of the Moorlands’ most historic traditions, is upheld. The popular event will be celebrated during the Bank Holiday weekend, on the 23rd, 24th and 25th May 2015 and the packed programme will feature children’s entertainment and activities, a classic car show, pet show, display of majestic owls, tossing the sheaf contest, jousting, archery, duck race and much more.

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rganisers of Leek’s Double Sunset Country and Western Weekend have been forced to cancel the event due to unforeseen circumstances. The event, which proved hugely popular when it took place last year in memory of former Leek Councillor and businessman Steve Povey, will not take place this year as planned. Organisers, the Kingfisher Country Music Club wished to apologise to all of artists and country music lovers on account of unexpected cancellation. The Leek based club is still running and a full list of diary dates can be found online by visiting the website: www.kingfishercmc.org.uk.

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he 11th annual Scooter-Fest will return to the Moorlands town of Leek this spring. Organised by the North Staffordshire based group the Jesters Scooter Club, members are now looking forward to descending on the town on Sunday 17th May for yet another fantastic celebration. Kicking off from 11am, the festival promises to be a real spectacle for visitors and is sure to provide a great day out - whether you’re a scooter fanatic or not. Having enjoyed widespread success in previous years, the event first came about in 2004 after the club was invited to join in with Leek’s carnival festivities. After proving popular with residents and visitors alike, it was agreed that 2005 would feature an entire day dedicated to all things Scootering here in Leek. More than a decade later, and with countless hours of hard work being put in by members, Scooter-Fest has helped to put the Jesters well and truly on the map. Due to the continued growth of the event, visitors to the town on 17th May will find thousands of examples of scooters, old and new, as well as many other scooter related attractions. 36 Leek Life May/June 2015

The Queen of the Moorlands’ indoor and outdoor markets will feature special visiting traders with scooter parts and accessories, vintage and modern clothing, records, cds and a whole host of scootering memorabilia all available to browse and buy. Add to this a ridden custom show with one off specially made trophies, a stage with live music and local Moorlands Radio DJ Mike Coburn, a hog roast and 2000 scooters, and the result is a spectacular event! Proving to be the most well attended event to date, last years Scooter-Fest was buoyed thanks to the glorious weather, a growing wave of local support and the many visiting scooterists who came along. Admission to Scooter-Fest is free but the Jesters are inviting visitors to purchase a £1 raffle ticket, which will be for sale on the day or make a donation to the club to help them continue hosting the show each year. For more information about Scooter-Fest, please telephone 07817 429616 or take a look at their regularly updated Facebook page. Better still come along and take a look at the thousands of colourful scooters in town - you won’t be disappointed.

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n interactive magical activity workshop has helped bring wizardry to life for a small group of disabled children from Leek. The enchanting event, which was organised by the charity Caudwell Children, took place at St Paul’s Church in Novi Lane, Leek during April and proved to be a real hit with youngsters. Open to children from eight to 18 years old, the day featured professional magic and circus performers who came along to give away a few tricks of the trade and help to capture the imagination of participants. Speaking about the spellbinding event, Keller McHenry from Caudwell Children told Leek Life: “These programmes are designed to encourage social interaction in a fully supported, secure environment. “Our activity days give participants invaluable skills whilst at the same time building their confidence and self-esteem.� The next Caudwell Children event to take place

at St Paul’s Church in Leek will be a drama activity day on Friday 29th May, from 10am until 4pm. The session will see professional actors teaching children a series of new acting techniques. Participants will also get the chance to make decorated masks which they will later perform in. “During the day children will work as a team to prepare for a performance in front of their parents and carers. We also hope that the day will enable local families to form lasting social networks with other people in their area,� he added. To find out more about the next activity day or to book your child onto the programme, please telephone 01782 600844 or 01782 600263 or email keller.mchenry@caudwellchildren.com. Parents are advised to provide a packed lunch for their child. Stoke on Trent based Caudwell Children is a charity which supports disabled children and their families.

Leek Life May/June 2015 37

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he cafe at the Foxlowe Arts Centre with its delicious menu of savoury dishes and scrummy selection of cakes is a popular refuelling stop for cyclists visiting our town. And now, in the hope of serving up a warm welcome to go with the tempting refreshments on offer, volunteers at the popular arts centre have recently installed a number of cycle-friendly planters outside the premises at the top of the Market Place. The addition of four specially designed PlantLock planters means the centre can now offer attractive and secure cycle parking thanks to their robust rails to which bicycles can be locked. Two of the new planters have been installed at the front of the building with a further two now sited on the rear terrace. Funded through the Peak District Cycling Friendly Places Fund, an initiative aimed at helping provide more cycle parking in the town, the new planters will each provide space for up to three bikes to be secured. The new additions are in situs just in time for the planned opening of the new signed cycle route which is due to launch this June. The new route will guide cyclists from Stockton

38 Leek Life May/June 2015

Brook through to Leek, via the Cauldon canal, and is something which promises to bring more cyclists into the town throughout the course of the summer. An army of volunteers turned out recently to help add the finishing touches to the new cycle friendly planters by filling them with heather and strawberry plants. Alison McCrea, Foxlowe garden co-ordinator, told Leek Life: “We are delighted that this grant from the Peak District National Park has allowed us not only to provide facilities for the increasing number of cyclists visiting Leek, because of the improvements to local cycle routes, but also to enhance the Foxlowe by the provision of planters. “We have heather plants at the front of the building in recognition of the funding from the Peak Park and strawberries on the terrace in line with our policy of having as many edible plants as possible in the garden. We hope our visitors will enjoy eating them along with tea and cake in the summer.� Studies have shown that cyclists now spend more time in our local area than car users, so facilities that help the area to become cycle friendly are also likely to enhance the local economy.

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ne of the town’s leading sports clubs was honoured at an event staged to recognise sporting success here in the Moorlands. Sports stars from across the district, including Leek, were celebrated during the recently held awards ceremony. Organised by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, the categories included junior and senior sports achiever and awards for teams, coaches and volunteers. Winners included a sportswoman who has represented the England team in her chosen sport; a sportsman who is one of just three qualified swimming referees in Staffordshire; and a sportsman who has committed over 30 years of his life to a Leek club. The celebration of sports is an annual event aimed at recognising the achievements of leading local lights who have either performed at the top of their game or have given their time and energy to helping others participate. The Sports Club of the Year award went to Leek RUFC first team senior squad (pictured). A successful year last season saw the team gain

promotion as league champions of Midlands 2 Rugby Union League. They were also National Intermediate finalists at Twickenham and Intermediate Midland Cup Champions. Also bringing recognition home to Leek was local coach and umpire Julian Brookes who was awarded the Alan Hurst Contribution to Sport Award for his dedication to Leek Hockey Club. Having been a club member for over 30 years and captain of the fifth team, Julian is also a committee member, chairman of the facilities committee, league secretary for the Midlands and has now been appointed secretary for the Midlands Combined four/five and six teams leagues. He organises and co-ordinates matches at the annual tournament over two days and continues to give many hours of his time to ensure the club develops and members get the most from their membership. The Staffordshire Moorlands Sports Awards were sponsored by Moorlands Radio, Sport Across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, Alton Towers Resort and Identity Printers. Leek Life May/June 2015 39

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or many people weddings are all about the clothes and the venue, so a vintage wedding fashion show at Leek’s Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery has proved to be the perfect marriage. Following a hugely successful sell-out vintage clothes show last year Notty Hornblower, from Hope House Costume Museum, returned to the town to share her wonderful collection of wedding dresses of yesteryear during her ‘Here Comes the Bride’ fashion extravaganza . The Nicholson Museum and Art Gallery now has a burgeoning programme of events which, alongside the regular exhibitions and gallery displays, are helping to attract more and more visitors through the doors of the historic building. An online version of the Nicholson what’s on leaflet is available to download from www.staffsmoorlands.gov.uk. Hard copies can be collected from The Staffordshire Moorlands Tourist Information Centre at The Nicholson Institute itself in Stockwell Street, Leek. Call 01538 483741 for more details. 40 Leek Life May/June 2015

FOURO WILK ERS H VOUCFOR UP BS GRA

Win £50 shopping spree WHERE IS THE LEEK WILKO STORE LOCATED? A: Brick Street

B: Brook Street

#

Win a gift voucher worth £50 to spend at your local Wilko store

C: Break Street

(Mr/Mrs/Miss) Name...................................................................................................... Address................................................................................................................................ .............................................................................................................................................. Full UK Postcode...................................Tel...................................................................... To enter, please send your answer, along with your contact details to admin@timesandecho.co.uk or mail to Times, Echo and Life Publications, 18 Tape Street, Cheadle, ST10 1BD. The closing date for entries is 30.6.15. www.wilko.com Terms and Conditions: Only one entry submitted per person. Vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash. Entry must also contain contact name and address of entrant. Times Echo and Life Publications and Wilko employees cannot enter this competition. Four winners will be randomly selected from the correct entries and will each win a £50 Wilko gift voucher.

Leek Life May/June 2015 41

NEW FOR 2015

natural stone paving

Barnfield Industrial Estate, Leek, ST13 5QG

Tel: 01538 384141

-#78 75&7+282/ 78&658#6 70 43)8%45)730

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ate spring and early summer are perfect for getting busy in your home and garden. The two May bank holiday weekends are popular DIY days, with that extra day allowing time for interior renovations or exterior jobs such as painting window frames and doors. Interior jobs are best tackled in late spring as the generally fine weather allows for good ventilation when painting or drilling, as well as allowing you to banish kids and pets into the garden while you get on with the work. By May the growing season is well underway and regular mowing is essential to keep lawns looking trim and healthy, although some nature charities advocate leaving a patch of grass unmown to provide habitats and food sources for wildlife. If you haven’t already tackled the early season jobs like repainting the fence or shed, now is the time. Get it done over the first bank holiday weekend - and you can spend the next one having a barbecue with friends instead! As the garden reaches its zenith in June, it’s time to consider - is everything exactly as you want it? If not, make a list of what doesn’t work and think about what you’d like instead. Sketch out different versions of alterations to your garden and shop around for ideas and inspiration. Later in the summer is the ideal time to make changes before next year’s growing season, so start planning now. Likewise, in the home, June is a month for reflection. Evaluating your home allows you to identify any changes that need to be made. Some things can be tackled by moving just a few items of furniture, but sometimes an entire room needs a complete overhaul. By planning how you want to make changes and shopping around for the latest designs on the market, you might well find some clever solutions to those little niggles that need fixing.

Inspirational designs for your home Stunning, affordable, quality We pride ourselves on our product quality and choice. So, come and view our extensive range of top quality bathrooms, fires and stoves, all beautifully laid out in our spacious showroom and we guarantee you’ll leave inspired!

29 Liverpool Road, Kidsgrove, Stoke-on-Trent, ST7 1EA t. 01782 785965 w.www.ge-firesstovesbathrooms.co.uk Leek Life May/June 2015 43

4 780$

T

758%45)73/3%848 577 7

hanks to more than 70 years experience, garden machinery specialists at PJS Machinery Ltd are looking forward to bringing their unrivalled industry knowledge to customers this summer. From their base on Buxton Road, Leek, the team of qualified engineers are able to offer the very best in advice and help make sure you’re fully prepared to tackle the gardening year ahead with confidence. Whether you’re looking to buy, hire or take advantage of their extensive repairs and servicing department, PJS are dedicated to helping find the perfect solution for you. Company owner Peter Sims, who took over the business in Leek four years ago told us: “Our engineers are able to repair and service a huge range of garden machinery, old and new. From chainsaw sharpening to strimmer repairs or even the supply of spare parts, we can do it all". “We pride ourselves on customer service, which is why we treat all machinery with the utmost care. Working quickly and efficiently we can fix almost any machine and if you’re unable to make it down to our workshop, we also offer a collection and delivery service within a 30 mile radius." “We also pride ourselves on our expert advice, so even if you’re not quite sure which of our products

could help you and your garden the most, just ask us and we can help!â€? In addition to the wide range of new and used garden tools and accessories in stock, PJS Machinery Ltd have an extended wider product range which includes items such as Stoves and Fire Spares, Gas, Heating Equipment and Solid Fuel. In line with their reputation for customer service, PJS Machinery Ltd is home to many recognised and long trusted names such as Stihl, Honda, Briggs and Stratton, Efco, Countax, Echo, Viking, Lawnflite, Cub Cadet, Mountfield, Husquvarna, Stiga and many more. Peter added: “We have everything you need to get up and running for the 2015 gardening year all in store now". “If you are wanting to upgrade your machinery, we have a selection of ex-demo and pre-owned items as well as the new items in stock and we are currently offering up to ÂŁ100 part exchange for customers purchasing a new mower. “Just contact us with your requirements or pop into the store so we can help you in person. If it’s a repair or service that you require, we are happy to take a look at your machine and there is no fee for looking!â€?

With a large range of garden machinery, tools, equipment, accessories and spares, plus a workshop offering service & repair, all complete with expert advice, why choose up to anywhere else?

ÂŁ100

part exc hang on new e mower

RELIABLE SPECIALISTS ON SALES - SERVICE - REPAIRS Find us on Facebook

Pearl Mill, Buxton Road, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 6EJ 01538 371 335 | www.pjsmachineryltd.co.uk

44 Leek Life May/June 2015

Find us on Twitter

qualified & experienced • Fully tree surgeon All aspects of tree & hedge work • undertaken • Fully insured • Free advice & no obligation quotes • Chainsaw training & assessments weed spraying • Driveway/patio service

Tel: 01538 382198 Mob: 07812 598909

Email: totaltreesolutions@hotmail.co.uk

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s

Approved stockists of

2 Market Place, Cheadle, Stoke-on-Trent, ST10 1AH Tel: 01538 750744 www.staffordshirestoves.co.uk

Open: Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10am-4 pm

Leek Life May/June 2015 45

46 Leek Life May/June 2015

34 /+8)70/%38 /2# 26 8 $4*/2 827+#36*6%

MOTORING

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lending Mazda's striking 'KODO-Soul of Motion' design philosophy with its unique SKYACTIV technology, the all-new Mazda2 features the signature 'wing' front grille and predatory headlamp styling that form the latest Mazda family ‘look’, together with a dynamic, muscular, cab-rearward design, which incorporates a longer wheelbase to maximise interior space. Powered by Mazda's 1.5-litre 90ps SKYACTIV G petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, the special Sports Launch Edition model is generously equipped. Outside, there are 16-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass, dusk-sensing lights, rain-sensing front wipers, rear parking sensors and free-of-charge Metallic/Mica/Pearlescent paint in a choice of four colours. Inside, it comes with the MZD Connect system featuring a 7-inch colour touchscreen, a rotary Multimedia Commander, DAB radio and a satellite navigation system. Across the range, the all-new Mazda2 sets new standards in the B-segment for infotainment, incar connectivity, specification levels and available safety technology - including, from 90ps SE-L

petrol and 105ps SE-L diesel models - lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS), which automatically applies the brakes if the system detects an imminent frontal impact. Additionally, the optional Active Driving Display with head-up technology, which is available as part of the safety pack on 115ps Sport Nav, projects the most important real-time driving data directly into the driver's forward field of view. Depending on model, available equipment includes: smart keyless entry, climate control airconditioning, a 7-inch colour touch-screen, a rotary Multimedia Commander infotainment control, MZD Connect, DAB radio (for the first time in Mazda2), and a satellite navigation system with three years of free map updates. Customers can select their all-new Mazda2 from five regular grades – SE, SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav – or choose the Sports Launch Edition while limited stocks last. On-theroad prices range from £11,995 to £17,395 over the 16-model line-up that features four 90ps petrol models with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Leek Life May/June 2015 47

iJet 135hp). urther information on the FIAT Doblò, as well as the r models in FIAT

www.FIATprofessional.co.uk.

n of the Year 2015

*Prices exclude VAT, OTR, delivery and related charges

MultiJet II 90hp, 1.6 MultiJet II 90hp Comfort-Matic, 1.6 MultiJet II 105hp and 2.0 MultiJet 135hp). Further information on the new FIAT Doblò, as well as the other models in FIAT

Professional's award-winning range of commercial vehicles, is available at www.FIATprofessional.co.uk. *Prices exclude VAT, OTR, delivery and related charges

T. 07773 686232

T. 07593 609175

COMPASS LIBERTY MERCEDES Advertise for 14-2 just £5.00. Add a photo for an extra £5.0 CARAVAN CLASSIC SE VGC, 2005 model, end kitchen, Call 01538 shower, flush, toilet, spare wheel, 752214 for more details. kept under cover from new,motor mover fitted, microwave, blown air heating, Sony CD radio, service records, CRIS reg’d.

A-CLASS

5 door hatch, 50,000 miles, excellent condition, 1 year MOT.

£3,200 ono

£5,000 ovno

T. 07773 686232

T. 07593 609175

Advertise for just £5.00. Add a photo for an extra £5.00. Call 01538 752214 for more details.

WHERE CAN YOUWHERE BUY A BRAND FORAONLY £22 PER WEEKCAR AND WITH YEARS£22 WARRANTY, CANNEW YOUCAR BUY BRAND NEW FOR3ONLY PER NO DEPOSIT? must go to What’s better than aAND brandWITH new car,3 with no breakdowns, no maintenance and no MOT costs?! engineers WEEK YEARS WARRANTY, NO DEPOSIT? ant Doblò What’s better than a brand car, with no3 breakdowns, ning every DRIVE AWAY WITH YOUR NEW 15AND REG FROM MARCH WHERE CAN YOU BUY A BRAND NEW CAR FOR ONLY £22new PER WEEK WITH YEARS WARRANTY,1ST NO DEPOSIT? o customer no maintenance and no MOT costs?! What’s better than a brand new car, with no breakdowns, no maintenance and no MOT costs?! to make it

also very sA2Z jury iating the all those warding the argo their

DRIVE WITH YOUR NEW REG DRIVE AWAY AWAY WITH YOUR NEW 15 REG FROM15 1ST MARCH• NU15 REG • • NU15 REG • On The Road Drive Away £9,095 Allowance £2,000 On TheMarsons Road DriveScrappage Away £9,095 Marsons Scrappage Allowance Extra Discount from £2,000 Marsons £450 Extra Discount from Marsons £450 Total Deposit From Marsons £2,450 Total Deposit From Marsons £2,450 Customer £0 Customer Deposit Deposit £0 Balance With Interest Balance With Interest£7,887 £7,887 Per Month x 48 £99 Per Month x 48 £99 Per Week Equivalent £22 Per Week Equivalent £22 Guaranteed Minimum Future Value £2,195 Guaranteed Minimum Future Low APR % 7.1% Value £2,195 Low APR % 7.1%

blò: Doblò was media on t a special Midlands. ation FIAT sh exterior engine models and version wer fuel reduced urther. The irst vehicle ll “FIAT its tailgate, appear on rofessional from now

aunched in Doblò has 1.4 million 0 different g North ails as the ity. It is a plant in orld Class d Medal new FIAT 5* and it is bodystyles and Work ation levels oJet and powertrain 95hp, 1.3

• NU15 REG •

• NU15 REG • • NU15 REG •

• NU15 REG •

• NU15 REG •

• NU15 REG •

On The Road Drive Away Marsons Scrappage Allowance Customer Deposit Balance With Interest Per Month x 48 Per Week Equivalent Guaranteed Minimum Future Value Low APR %

• NU15 REG •

On The Road Drive Away Marsons Scrappage Allowance Extra Discount from Marsons Total Deposit From Marsons Customer Deposit Balance With Interest Per Month x 48 Per Week Equivalent Guaranteed Minimum Future Value Low APR %Drive Away On The Road

£10,420 £2,000 £0 £10,158 £129 £29 £4,122 4.8%

n The Road Drive Away £10,420 arsons Scrappage Allowance £2,000 ustomer Deposit £0 alance With Interest £10,158 er Month x 4848 Leek Life May/June £1292015 er Week Equivalent £29 uaranteed Minimum Future Value £4,122

Marsons Scrappage Allowance Extra Discount from Marsons Total Deposit From Marsons Customer Deposit Balance With Interest Per Month x 48 Per Week Equivalent Guaranteed Minimum Future Value

• NU15 REG •

£10,730 On The Road Drive Away £15,200 £2,000 Marsons Scrappage Allowance £2,000 £1,235 Extra Discount from Marsons £955 £3,235 Total Deposit From Marsons £2,995 £0 Customer Deposit £0 £8,994 Balance With Interest £14,511 £139 Per Month x 48 £219 £31 Per Week Equivalent £49 £2,410 Guaranteed Minimum Future Value £4,150 7.7%£10,730Low APROn % The Road Drive Away 7.0%

£2,000 £1,235 £3,235 £0 £8,994 £139 £31 £2,410

Marsons Scrappage Allowance Extra Discount from Marsons Total Deposit From Marsons Customer Deposit Balance With Interest Per Month x 48 Per Week Equivalent Guaranteed Minimum Future Value

£15,200 £2,000 £955 £2,995 £0 £14,511 £219 £49 £4,150

We service most cars & 4x4s from NEW, including CHRYSLER and JEEP using OE and Equivalent Quality Parts.

COLLECTION AND DELIVERY AVAILABLE Petrol costs getting too high? Then consider LPG! With LPG fuel being roughly half that of petrol, the cost of an LPG CONVERSION can usually be recouped within 12 months (based on ÂŁ45.00 per week avg. fuel spend). Prices start from ÂŁ1,750 (inc. VAT @ 20%).

01538 399377

C.A.R. Burton Street, Leek, Staffs, ST13 8BU

RUDYARD LAKE

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Station Road, Rudyard, Leek, ST13 8PG www.rudyardlakegarage.co.uk ) && ) )% &

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adrian wilson

THE ORIGINAL INDEPENDENT RENAULT SPECIALIST TRUST THE BEST

Adrian Wilson Garage

pr No og w ra do Pe Ren mm ing C uge au ing key itr o lt, fo oe t & r n

CRUSO AUTO REPAIRS

Salisbury Street, Leek, Staffordshire ST13 5EE Telephone: 01538 399255

www.adrian-wilson.co.uk

Leek Life May/June 2015 49

CLASSIFIED

Graham Bagshaw PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER

• City & Guilds approved • Installation & service The Nook, Butterton, Leek, Staffs, ST13 7SP

T: 01538 304518 M: 07841 708861

Domestic & Commercial Cleaning Cleaning from £10 per hour Spring Clean from £35 (min 4 hrs) Deep Clean from £45 Start & End of Tenancy Cleaning Carpet Cleaning

T: 07974 247959

E: greenfrogltd@gmail.com Free no obligation quotes

WHISTON JOINERY & BUILDING Quality purpose made joinery Building/Renovation/ Alteration work No job too small Competitive prices

Tel: 01538 266653 or 07702 110235 E: tomkinson@btconnect.com

ELECTRICAL SERVICES Domestic & commercial Friendly & reliable Covering Leek, Cheadle, Uttoxeter & surrounding areas

WE WILL BEAT ANY LIKE FOR LIKE QUOTE

Block paving and groundwork specialists • Decorative paving • Natural stone • Flagging • Fencing • Kerbing • Wrought iron • Gates • Garden walls

info@livearth.co.uk www.livearth.co.uk

CALL DARREN ON: 01538 420371 or 07538 490259 info@holland.co.uk • www.dwholland.co.uk

01538 307005

Leek Electrical • Professional, local, reliable, tidy • Part P approved • All work guaranteed & fully insured • No job too small • New 17th edition fuse box £300 inspected & tested • Domestic & commercial

NO CALL OUT CHARGE FREE QUOTES

Certified

Tel: 01538 387169 or 07875 464866 07971 849805

Custom made blinds and curtains Full range of fabrics Full measurement and making service Curtain alterations also undertaken Competitive pricing - I will always try to beat any like for like quote

Contact Claire Hardiwick T: 01538 702201 M: 07979 942050 E: claire@curtainsup.co.uk

Alan Lewis Electrical Contractors All types of domestic work undertaken No job too small Free friendly advice and quotes

www.malelectrician.co.uk

Please call 07811 176311

Would you like to advertise? Call Thomas Brian on 01538 752214 or 07855 242693, or email tom@timesandecho.co.uk 50 Leek Life May/June 2015

FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE AND UNBEATABLE PRICES

Stay Cool in Summer and Warm in Winter by changing your conservatory roof to a solid tiled roof

Replace your conservatory roof with a solid roof, to provide living space 365 days of the year. • Use existing roof frame • Choice of tile finishes • Plastered internally • ‘U’ value improvement of up to 20 times traditional poly-carbonate • Choice of colours for fascias & guttering • Fitted within 3-5 working days • 10 year guarantee • Reduce winter fuel bills • Add value and living space to your property

FreePhone

0800 865 4233 Mob: 07785 507371 www.lmdconservatoryroofs.co.uk LMD Ltd Co Reg 08381411 - Depots in Sutton Coldfield, Stoke and Derby

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